When planning a family getaway to Maui, there are a few unforgettable experiences that should top your list—soaking in the golden embrace of a Hawaiian sunset is without question one of them. With its lush valleys, volcanic peaks, and craggy coastlines, Maui offers countless vantage points, but choosing the perfect sunset spot can elevate your trip from magical to truly unforgettable. For families especially, finding a location that’s beautiful, accessible, and safe for the kids is key. Fortunately, the Valley Isle delivers.
Here’s our top recommendation for the best, family-friendly place to watch the sunset on Maui—and why you shouldn’t miss it.
Haleakalā Summit: A Sunset Above the Clouds
When it comes to sunsets on Maui, there’s no place quite as ethereal as the summit of Haleakalā, the massive dormant volcano that dominates the eastern part of the island. At over 10,000 feet above sea level, you’ll rise above the clouds and witness a transformation of sunlight that feels otherworldly.
While sunrise at Haleakalā is more famous—and requires a reservation with the National Park Service—sunset does not require advanced booking and is far more relaxed, but equally (if not more) spectacular. The experience of watching the sun dip below a sea of clouds, casting deep reds, purples, and golds over the volcanic crater, is simply unforgettable.
Keep in mind, temperatures at the summit can drop into the 40s or even 30s°F (especially in winter), so pack warm layers for the whole family. Bring blankets, warm drinks, snacks, and arrive about 70–90 minutes before sunset to secure parking and settle in. For little ones, this can be a long haul, so balance the length of the drive and high altitude with how your children typically handle travel. The summit is best suited for kids elementary age or older due to the thinner air and long day.
You’ll be surrounded by protected lands at Haleakalā National Park, so be respectful of the ecosystem and the cultural significance of this site to Native Hawaiians.
Insider Tips for the Perfect Haleakalā Sunset
– Arrive early if you can, as the drive alone takes 1.5 to 2 hours from most resort areas like Wailea or Lahaina.
– There are restrooms at the summit, but no food vendors, so come prepared.
– Use reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen even at high altitudes—UV exposure is stronger the higher you go. Our Coco Botanicals sunscreen is perfect; it’s free of harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which damage marine life, and it keeps your skin nourished and protected using all-natural ingredients. It’s Hawaii-compliant and safe for the whole family.
Alternative Family-Friendly Sunset Spots
If you’re looking for a sunset experience that doesn’t involve high elevation or a long drive, here are a few top-notch alternatives perfect for families with smaller children or those wanting a more low-key evening.
Kā‘anapali Beach
Located on Maui’s west side, Kā‘anapali Beach is a gently sloping three-mile stretch of golden sand with ideal sunset views. You’ll also find plenty of amenities nearby: restaurants, beachside walking paths, bathrooms, and parking.
An especially magical moment happens each evening at Black Rock (Puʻu Kekaʻa), where a ceremonial torch lighting and cliff diving ritual takes place at sunset—a beautiful and culturally rooted event suitable for kids of all ages.
Bring beach chairs and a picnic dinner; arrive early to stake out a spot and let the kids play in the sand while you soak up the view.
Keawakapu Beach
Located between Wailea and Kihei, Keawakapu Beach is a quieter gem ideal for families seeking a less crowded sunset experience. The water is calm, the sand is soft, and tidepools line the south end—perfect for a little pre-sunset exploration.
The horizon view here is wide and unobstructed, making it one of the best places to watch the sun slip below the water. Parking is relatively easy, and the nearby Mana Kai Resort offers amenities like an outdoor shower and on-site dining options.
Lahaina Pali Trail Overlook
For families with older kids or teens who are up for a short hike, Lahaina Pali Trail offers an epic west-facing viewpoint. You don’t have to do the full hike—just a one-mile ascent from the Ukumehame trailhead gives you a stunning view over the ocean and outer islands like Lana’i and Kahoʻolawe.
Bring headlamps for the hike back and go early to avoid the full exertion in the warm late-afternoon sun.
Sustainable Sunset Watching
As you plan your sunset-viewing adventure, don’t forget to be mindful of Maui’s delicate natural environment. Use reusable water bottles, pack out all trash, and stay on designated paths to protect native plant life. Apply reef-safe sunscreen like Coco Botanicals’ mineral-based formula, even for upland areas—this prevents wash-off pollutants from eventually making their way to the ocean ecosystems.
At Coco Botanicals, we believe exploring the beauty of Hawaii should go hand-in-hand with protecting it. Whether you’re watching the sky blaze over the ocean or glow above volcanic craters, sunset on Maui is more than a photo op—it’s a soulful connection to the land, sea, and sky. With a bit of planning and the right viewpoint, it may just be the highlight of your family’s trip.